(La Porte, IN) - Smoking and drinking alcohol are now prohibited in a section of downtown La Porte.

 

The ban approved by the city council last night is for Plaza 618 at Lincolnway and Monroe St.

 

According to city officials, such activity has been going on even in front of children using the splash pad there.

 

Charity Hlavsa, owner of the nearby Hot Spot Café, said it’s become such a problem that some people no longer want to have lunch or simply hang out there.

 

“It’s not pleasant to be around, to walk by.  It’s not a good look for our city,” she said.

 

The ban does allow for the use of alcohol at Plaza 618 during special events approved in advance by the city’s Board of Public Works and Safety.

 

Violators can be fined $100.

 

Mayor Tom Dermody is hoping the ban will reduce problems with sexual comments directed toward women at the plaza.